Contraceptive use among HIV-positive women in Enugu, southeast Nigeria

• Published in: International journal of gynecology and obstetrics Vol. 126; no. 1; pp. 14 - 17
• Main Authors: Ezugwu, Euzebus C., Nkwo, Peter O., Agu, Polycap U., Ugwu, Emmanuel O., Asogwa, Augustine O.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Ireland Ltd 01-07-2014
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Contraception; Contraception Behavior - statistics & numerical data; Cross-Sectional Studies; Enugu; Family planning; Female; HIV Infections - prevention & control; HIV-positive women; Humans; Middle Aged; Nigeria; Obstetrics and Gynecology; Young Adult; Nigeria; Family planning; Contraception; Enugu; Nigeria; HIV-positive women
• ISSN: 0020-7292; 1879-3479
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2013.12.014

Abstract Objective To determine the prevalence and pattern of, and factors associated with, contraceptive usage among HIV-positive women in Enugu, southeastern Nigeria. Methods In a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study, 400 consecutive HIV-positive, sexually active women receiving care at the adult HIV clinics of 2 tertiary health institutions in Enugu were interviewed using pre-tested questionnaires between March and August 2012. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was carried out via Epi Info. Results The rate of contraceptive use was 73.1%; 26.9% (n = 91) of women were not using modern contraceptives. Male condoms were the most frequent contraception used (78.1%, n = 193), but 48.2% of women reported inconsistent use. The proportion of women using a dual-contraceptive method was 25.1%; none used the female condom. Having a regular sexual partner was significantly associated with use of modern contraception (odds ratio, 73.00; 95% confidence interval, 34.13–156.13; P < 0.001). Misconception and fear of adverse effects were the most common reasons for not using contraception. Conclusion A considerable proportion of HIV-positive women in Enugu who did not desire to achieve pregnancy in the following 2 years (26.9%) had an unmet need for contraception. The use of contraception prevents unintended pregnancy and subsequent mother-to-child transmission of HIV and should be promoted in the region.